“Building rapport with the client is the foundation that I like to begin with and work on in the therapeutic journey.”
What was your path to becoming a therapist?
Though therapy has been my passion, my first career was teaching. While teaching, I learned how to develop empathy and connection through the diversity of my students and colleagues. I aimed to understand each individual as well as their characteristics, skills, and strengths. By identifying their strengths, I was better able to help the individual not only academically but personally as well. After a decade of teaching, I switched fields and began my journey toward becoming a therapist. Youth, young adults, and women have always been my inspirations. I believe that I am a natural helper; from a young age, helping and listening to others have always been important to me. I come from a diverse background; my father is Egyptian and my mother is Puerto Rican. Through this diversity, I have been able to relate to many and create a safe haven.
What should someone know about working with you?
Building rapport with the client is the foundation that I like to begin with and work on in the therapeutic journey. Working at the pace of the client through integrated intervention allows for a uniquely altered treatment plan and therapeutic journey.
How do your core values shape your approach to therapy?
Being brought up in a diverse household and exposed to different cultures has opened my eyes and mind regarding the ability to relate to people and empathize with them.
Have you done any research-based work that you found particularly exciting? How does it inform your practice today?
My values include identifying self, morals, and wants to create a stronger self-esteem and confidence. We go through many different seasons, forcing us to question ourselves and who we are. At times, we are even questioning our purpose in life. In the beginning part of the therapeutic journey, defining values and exploring self-awareness allows the individual to strengthen core values and beliefs. This allows them to become comfortable, find acceptance of self, and gain confidence.
“Working at the pace of the client through integrated intervention allows for a uniquely altered treatment plan and therapeutic journey.”